How to Identify Genuine Blue Sapphires – Tips You’ve Never Heard Before
Blue Sapphire, commonly known in Thai as “Phailin”, is a deep blue gemstone, one of the nine auspicious gems in Thai culture, and the birthstone for September. Sapphires form from a combination of iron and titanium and are known for their vibrant, rich blue color. Some may have a purplish or greenish tint depending on their origin, with major sources including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia.
How to Identify a Genuine Blue Sapphire
Here are some simple techniques to determine if a sapphire is real or synthetic:
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Look for Inclusions:
Natural sapphires often contain unique internal characteristics. Under a 10x magnification loupe, you’ll see fine and coarse rutile needle inclusions or angular color zoning. In contrast, synthetic stones may show curved lines or contain air bubbles.
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Breath Test:
Breathe onto the surface of the stone like fogging up a mirror. A genuine sapphire will clear within 2–3 seconds, while a synthetic stone takes longer to defog.
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Sunlight Test:
When exposed to sunlight, a natural sapphire will display some unevenness in color — usually darker in the front than in the back. If the stone shows a rainbow effect, it is likely not genuine.
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Heat Test:
Real sapphires won’t melt or change drastically under heat. However, if heated, they may reveal a reddish glow due to accumulated residue like lotion, sweat, or makeup. On the other hand, fake sapphires may melt or deform when exposed to direct flame.
Who Should Wear Blue Sapphires?
Sapphires are widely used in fine jewelry such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, and often paired with other gems like diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. These combinations add to the piece’s overall beauty and appeal. Blue sapphire is suitable for both men and women. It is believed to enhance wisdom, boost one's fortune, earn respect from others, and gain favor with influential people. Wearing sapphire jewelry is thought to bring prosperity and career advancement.
Which Shade Should You Choose?
Blue sapphires come in various shades: deep navy, sky blue, bluish-purple, and blue-green. Choosing the right shade depends on personal taste and preference. However, we recommend selecting high-quality or top-grade sapphires with minimal inclusions. Currently, the price for a high-grade 1-carat sapphire ranges between 20,000–60,000 THB, depending on quality. Find a piece you love that fits your budget — that’s the best choice.
While these methods can help you identify sapphires at a basic level, the safest way to ensure authenticity is to purchase from a trusted jeweler. Look for reputable stores with a long-standing history and strong customer trust — that way, you’ll walk away with 100% genuine, high-end jewelry you can cherish for years to come.